Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Tuttle Creek Lake - COE/Stockdale
Overview
Stockdale Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provides a peaceful retreat on the western shores of Tuttle Creek Lake. As the second-largest lake in Kansas, the area is known for its sprawling water views and rugged shoreline. This park offers a classic outdoor experience where the focus remains on the natural landscape rather than commercial frills. It serves as an excellent base for those looking to enjoy the expansive reservoir while staying close to the conveniences of Manhattan.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a few miles north of Manhattan, Kansas, Stockdale is nestled within the scenic Flint Hills region. The park is characterized by its hilly terrain and deciduous woodlands, which provide ample shade for many of the campsites. Its proximity to the Tuttle Creek Dam means visitors are never far from elevated vistas. The surrounding landscape is a mix of limestone bluffs and prairie grass, offering a distinct Midwestern beauty that changes dramatically with the seasons.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground primarily features spacious sites equipped with electric hookups, accommodating various RV sizes. While individual sewer connections are not available, a centrally located dump station and pressurized water spigots make logistics manageable. The facility includes:
- Accessible boat ramp for easy lake entry
- Modern shower buildings and flush toilets
- A playground and multiple picnic shelters
The large, level sites are well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy often missing in private RV parks.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water sports are the main draw here, with the lake being a hotspot for fishing and boating. Anglers often find success catching channel catfish and white bass. Just a short drive away, the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan offers immersive exhibits on the local ecosystem. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the hiking and biking trails at the adjacent state park units or visit the Konza Prairie Biological Station for a deeper look at the tallgrass prairie.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for budget-conscious RVers who appreciate the value and reliability of COE managed lands. It is a perfect fit for families looking for a lakeside weekend and boaters who want direct access to the water. Additionally, its location makes it a quiet alternative for K-State fans visiting for game days or university events. If you prefer bird calls over highway noise and enjoy a rustic, well-maintained environment, Stockdale will suit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jared Klug
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Tuttle Creek State Park – A Hidden Gem with Room to Roam Tuttle Creek State Park is truly one of Manhattan’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by expansive views, peaceful fishing spots, and plenty of room to breathe. Whether you're casting a line, hiking through the wooded trails, or just soaking in the serenity of the Flint Hills, this park offers a little something for everyone. The lake is stunning, and the shoreline stretches for miles—perfect for quiet reflection or a full day of adventure. There’s a generous mix of terrain, from shaded forest paths to open prairie, and the wildlife sightings are a bonus. It’s also great for families, solo explorers, and anyone needing a reset in nature. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is the condition of some of the roads. A few areas could definitely use resurfacing, especially near the campgrounds and trailheads. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you’re driving an RV or low-clearance vehicle. Overall, Tuttle Creek is a treasure. If you’re in the area and looking for space to unwind, fish, hike, or just reconnect with nature, this park delivers.
Anne Russ
We have stayed a few times. The park is gorgeous with lots to do for people who love camping. There is camping, fishing, hiking, lake access It’s a lovely state park
Timothy “Tim Jr EA” Graham Jr
It is always nice state park to camp at, and now looks like most sites have 50 amp connections at them. Only issue was some power at the pedestal but park staff handled it.
Veronica Miller
We stayed in the Pottawatomie cabin for a family vacation and we had the best time! Such a variety of activities you can do at the State Park, which was about 8 minutes from our cabin. Great spot for a vacation! Incredibly beautiful views. Great fishing spot, beautiful trails to walk, a swimming area (admittedly a little disappointed in how the buoys were not all anchored so the perimeter had blown around and made the swimming area terribly small), you can rent kayaks and canoes (just make sure you call to ask if it's available for when you plan to come, the website says memorial Day weekend but when we went to rent them we were told the end of June, and Wildcat Marina wouldn't rent them either due to blue green algae), and they also have an archery range! As for the cabin, it's not fancy but it's super nice to have air conditioning, a refrigerator , microwave, etc, while doing a camping style vacation. It's an escape from the heat without having to go back to the big city! You can tell the cabin has been there a while, it could use a deep cleaning, but all in all we were very happy and thankful to be staying there with such beautiful views! It's ADA compliant with everything set up so that you can stay there if you are in a wheelchair. As for the start park, it's a really fantastic spot to relax and connect with nature. We hope to make this an annual trip!
Lauren W
I’m always surprised by Kansas. This is such a beautiful spot. The state park side is a smaller lake that’s perfect for paddle boarding - what I was looking for. The reservoir side is absolutely astounding. The cliffs are beautiful and the dam is pretty impressive.